Kata
(Special thanks to Sensei Zack Miller for providing the information)
Seisan
From Shorin Ryu. Emphasizes a straight-forward stance, seiken tzuki blocking, the mae geri, and rapid technique. This kata was taught to Master Shimabuku by Chotoku Kyan and the name means “13.” What exactly is being referenced by the number 13 is not fully understood; some theories are 13 opponents, 13 movements, 13 breaths, and so on. For some time, it was believed that this kata was named after a famous master, but this appears to be a myth based on modern research. Seisan appears in most major styles of Okinawan and Japanese karate (known as Hangetsu in Japanese). This kata should take roughly 1 minute to perform with full power.
Seiuchin
From Goju Ryu. Emphasizes a strong, low stance in which the heels are shoulder-width apart and the feet are pointed out on a 45° angle. It also stresses reinforced blocks and punches, breath control, and powerful techniques. Chojun Miyagi, founder of Goju Ryu, taught this kata to Master Shimabuku. Various translations and symbolic meanings have been used for this kata, including “marching far quietly,” “the war kata,” “the lull in the storm,” and “seize, control, fight.” In some circles, hard breathing as in Sanchin is taught for the opening sequence of the form. There are many grappling techniques contained within this kata, and it should take roughly 1 minute at full power to complete this form.
Naihanchin
From Shorin Ryu. It is known for its "toe-inward" stance (uchi hachiji dachi). Designed for fighting with one's back against a wall or on a ledge. Most movements are performed in a lateral direction. Master Shimabuku is said to have learned this kata from both Chotoku Kyan and Choki Motobu, but the Motobu version is the one that is represented more heavily in Isshin Ryu. Motobu Sensei’s version of this kata notably started to the left, which differs from most other Shorin versions, which start to the right. Master Shimabuku also chose to have his version start to the left. This kata is the backbone of many Shorin derived styles and is taught in three parts (Shodan, Nidan, and Sandan) although Isshin Ryu’s version is basically Naihanchi Shodan, and the other two parts are not taught. Known as Tekki in Japanese, translations for this kata include “iron horse” and “to kick inside the knee.” This kata should be completed in roughly 35 to 45 seconds at full power.
Wansu
From Shorin Ryu. It is referred to as the "dumping form" because of the throw it contains. The technical term for this throw is kata guruma. The symbolic meaning of Wansu is “karate is my secret” or “hidden fist.” Wansu is actually most likely derived from a man’s name (potentially a Chinese master). This kata was taught to Master Shimabuku by Chotoku Kyan. Elusive footwork and in-close fighting techniques are stressed in this form. Known as Empi in Japanese, this kata should take just over 45 seconds to perform at full power.
Sanchin
From Goju Ryu. It emphasizes strong technique and breath control. The name means "three battles", and refers to the control of mind, body, and breath during the performance of the kata. Master Shimabuku learned this kata from Chojun Miyagi. Sanchin is considered one of the most important kata of all karate and is practiced in some form by most major Okinawan styles. It was originally derived from an ancient form of Chinese chu’an fa (kempo) and is believed to be one of the oldest, if not the oldest, kata still practiced on Okinawa today. With full breathing, the kata should take roughly 90 to 120 seconds to complete.
Chinto
From Shorin Ryu. It derives its name from Master Chinto. This kata emphasizes pivots and fighting on angles. Chinto is one of the most difficult kata to perform while maintaining good balance. This kata was taught to Master Shimabuku by Chotoku Kyan, who was notable for his jumping kick, as is contained within the form. The symbolic meaning of this kata is “fighting toward the east.” This kata includes attacks to the joints, and a wide array of techniques at all body levels (low, middle, high). The entire kata is performed on a diagonal line and teaches the student to fight on uneven terrain such as a stairwell or hillside. With full power, the kata should take roughly 1 minute to perform.
Kusanku
From Shorin Ryu. It derives its name from Master Kusanku. Designed for fighting under conditions with limited light, and teaches evasive techniques. This was reportedly Chotoku Kyan’s favorite kata, and he passed it on to Master Shimabuku. This kata is sometimes called the “night fighting kata” and has a symbolic meaning of “to view the sky.” This kata is highly advanced and includes kneeling, spinning, and jumping techniques. It is known as Kanku in Japanese (Kanku Sho/Kanku Dai) and is considered very difficult to perform correctly. With full power, the kata should be completed between 75 and 90 seconds.
Sunsu
This is the kata that Master Shimabuku personally developed, and bears his nickname. It is the longest and most difficult kata to perform. This is the only empty hand kata that is unique to Isshin Ryu. The name Sunsu means “son of the old man” and has also been translated as “strong man.” This kata contains techniques from the previous empty hand kata, as well as some techniques from kata that were not included in the Isshin Ryu system. It should take between 75 and 90 seconds to complete with full power.
